Drink plenty of water… Eat a balanced, nutritious diet… Get regular exercise…
We’ve all heard this advice before. But here’s where it gets interesting: when you found an article giving you those basic tips, what were you searching for? Was it tips for losing weight or making your hair grow? Maybe stopping fingernail breakage so you can finally achieve your dream mani or dealing with joint pain after hitting the gym? Because it actually applies to all of the above.
Beauty and wellness might not seem like they have much in common at first glance, but they’re actually interconnected in lots of surprising ways! That also means that there’s tons of overlap in the things we can do to improve them – and collagen might be one of the clearest examples of how closely related looking great and feeling great actually are.
Collagen plays a huge role in your body – it fortifies our skin, supports our bones with connective tissue, and keeps your skin looking youthful and elastic, among many other things.
That’s why it’s no surprise that collagen supplements have taken off exponentially in recent years. And personally, I think they’re here to stay. It’s not just a trend but a testament to how much we care about our holistic wellbeing. With promises of radiant skin, improved joint health, and an overall vitality boost, collagen supplements have sparked a revolution in self-care, encouraging us to support our bodies from the inside out.
If you’re wondering what the real story on collagen is, you’re in the right place. We’re here to cut through the influencer hype and talk about the real, research-backed benefits of collagen, plus the best ways to incorporate collagen into your beauty/wellness routine.
The more collagen we have, the stronger our tissue is – whether that’s skin, joints, or other important tissue. Image courtesy of Plastic and Aesthetic Research.
What is Collagen?
Collagen, often described as the body's scaffolding, is a remarkable protein that plays a foundational role in maintaining the structural integrity of our bodies. It's the most abundant protein, constituting a significant portion of our skin, bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and even the connective tissues that hold our organs in place. Picture it as the invisible architect, meticulously crafting the framework that supports our physical form.
This resilient protein is primarily produced by specialized cells called fibroblasts found in the skin's dermis, where it creates a network of fibers. These fibers provide the skin with its elasticity, suppleness, and strength.
However as we get older, the body's natural collagen production slows down, leading to visible signs of aging like wrinkles, sagging skin, and reduced joint flexibility. Starting in early adulthood (that’s as early as your mid-20s!) collagen production starts to slow down about 1% per year according to UCLA Health.
And according to the American Academy of Dermatology, women can lose 30% or more of their collagen in the five years following menopause. That’s a huge drop!!
Types of Collagen
Collagen is not a single entity but rather a family of proteins, with several types identified within the human body.
🧬 Type I collagen, the most abundant, is found in skin, tendons, bones, and organs.
🧬 Type II predominates in cartilage, providing cushioning and flexibility to joints.
🧬 Type III is present in skin, blood vessels, and internal organs, contributing to the overall structural support.
Collagen has far reaching effects, especially on muscle health.
What Happens When You Don’t Have Enough Collagen
Collagen is a multifunctional powerhouse. Since it supports so many different tissues and functions in the body, declining collagen levels can impact you in a variety of ways.
> It supports wound healing by forming a scaffold for new tissue growth and helps maintain the integrity of blood vessels, so less collagen means wounds might heal more slowly.
> Collagen helps give bones strength and resilience, ensuring the right amount of flexibility, so less collagen means a higher risk of fractures.
> It also assists in muscle contraction, giving muscles the support they need during movement, so less collagen means decreased mobility + increased risk of exercise-related injury.
And of course, the loss of elasticity in the skin can also lead to visible signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, and saggy or crepe-y skin.
Why the Surge in Collagen Supplements' Popularity?
It’s no surprise that collagen supplements have taken the wellness world by storm. Their rapid rise in popularity says a lot about how our attitudes toward health, beauty, and self-care are evolving. More people than ever are looking for natural, holistic ways to feel better, look younger, and stay healthier for the long haul—and collagen fits right into that mindset.
One of the biggest drivers behind the collagen boom? The growing desire for youthful, glowing skin—without going under the knife. As more people move away from invasive cosmetic procedures, they’re turning to collagen as a gentler, more natural way to support skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and maintain a radiant complexion from the inside out. It feels less like “anti-aging” and more like aging well.
There’s also been a major increase in awareness about what collagen actually does. Thanks to more accessible research and a push for education in the health space, people now understand that collagen isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a foundational protein that plays a crucial role in everything from skin to joints to gut health. As scientific studies continue to back up the benefits of collagen supplementation, it’s no wonder consumers are eager to add it to their daily routine.
We’re also seeing a broader shift toward preventive wellness. Instead of waiting until something goes wrong, people are more focused on maintaining their health proactively. Collagen supports that effort in a big way—not just by nourishing the skin, but also by promoting joint function, bone density, digestion, and even hair and nail strength. It’s a versatile supplement that checks a lot of boxes for those aiming for whole-body wellness.
And of course, it’s not just about what a supplement does—it’s also about how it’s made. Today’s health-conscious consumers are looking for products that are clean, responsibly sourced, and free from unnecessary additives. That’s why collagen supplements that boast labels like “non-GMO,” “grass-fed,” or “minimally processed” are especially appealing. They align with the values of people who want both efficacy and integrity in what they put in their bodies.
In short, the collagen craze isn’t “just hype”—it’s part of a bigger, smarter movement toward thoughtful, natural wellness.
The rise of social media and influencer culture has also contributed significantly. Endorsements, testimonials, and before-and-after stories shared by influencers and celebrities have amplified awareness and driven consumer curiosity about the potential benefits of collagen supplements. Overall, the surge in collagen supplements' popularity is a convergence of factors, ranging from a desire for natural beauty solutions, increased awareness of its benefits, a shift towards preventive healthcare, and the influence of social media, that have collectively propelled collagen into the spotlight as a sought-after wellness ally.
Best Forms to Take Collagen Supplements In
Collagen supplements are available in several different forms, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right one for you really comes down to personal preference: what fits your goals and lifestyle the best?
Here are a few popular forms of collagen for you to consider, plus what they’re best at.
Collagen Powder
⭐ Perfect for people with flexible routines who enjoy smoothies, coffee, or other mix-in beverages + want to see overall wellness and visible skin, hair, and joint benefits.
This one’s all about versatility. If you think that variety is the spice of life, collagen powder is the perfect way to reap the benefits without adding another boring vitamin to your wellness routine. Unflavored collagen powder is great because you won’t even notice it’s there after you mix it into your favorite smoothie, coffee, or other beverage.
But if you’re looking for something a little more decadent, you can also pick up a collagen powder that’s a treat in and of itself, like collagen hot cocoa, matcha collagen, or even delicious apple pie collagen.
Collagen Capsules
⭐ Perfect for people with big travel plans or busy schedules who need a quick, convenient, no-fuss option that supports skin + joint health without disrupting their day.
No time to craft the perfect breakfast smoothie before work? No problem. Collagen capsules are maybe the most common type of collagen supplement because they’re so easy to incorporate into your routine. Just knock back a couple of capsules with some water, and you’re good to go.
You can even find options that stack the benefits of collagen and other powerful compounds for hair, skin, and joint support, like biotin and vitamin D.
Liquid Collagen
⭐ Perfect for people who want a middle ground between fun and convenience.
The latest and trendiest addition to the lineup of collagen supplements is liquid collagen. They’ve gone mega viral recently because they come in tasty flavors, don’t require mixing, and purportedly offer quick absorption for maximum benefits. The jury is out on whether it really works, but those liquid collagen mocktails you see all over Insta sure do look yummy!
Dietary Collagen
⭐ Perfect for people who have lots of time to dedicate to incorporating healthy, balanced sources of collagen into their meals. Meal preppers, this is your time to shine.
Like lots of other important vitamins, minerals, and proteins, we actually get some collagen through foods we eat every day. So if you want to up the collagen you’re putting into your body, it can actually be as simple as changing what you put on your plate.
Although this one does come with a caveat – it takes time to build a menu that’s tailored to a specific goal like this. If you have the time and know-how, amazing! But it might not be the easiest option for everyone.
Other Collagen Supplement Considerations
Beyond the form, it's crucial to consider the quality and source of collagen in supplements. Opting for high-quality, responsibly sourced collagen, preferably from grass-fed or pasture-raised animals or marine sources, ensures purity and effectiveness.
Ultimately, the best form of collagen supplement is the one that aligns with your individual preferences, lifestyle, and dietary habits while also prioritizing high-quality sourcing for maximum benefit.
Collagen Plus: Ingredients That Pack Extra Benefits Into Your Collagen Supplement
A Closer Look at the Magic of Mushrooms, Elderberry & Ginger
At Dr. Emil, we know that it can be difficult to stick to a wellness routine – no matter how carefully thought out or well-researched it might be. Life happens. We get busy. And that’s why it’s important to make your wellness routine as easy to follow as possible!
That’s also why our catalog features several collagen supplements (both drink mixes and capsules) that combine the benefits of collagen with other powerful ingredients. Say goodbye to mixing and matching tons of supplements to get the results you’re looking for.
Here’s a quick look at some ingredients that make a great complement to collagen.
🍄 Mushrooms
Mushrooms, celebrated for their immune-boosting properties and rich nutrient profile, fortify the collagen's effects. Their adaptogenic qualities offer resilience against stressors while supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms. When paired with collagen, mushrooms create a powerhouse blend that not only rejuvenates the skin but also bolsters the body's immune response.
🫐 Elderberry
Elderberry, revered for its antioxidant properties, complements collagen by combating oxidative stress. Its ability to neutralize free radicals helps shield the skin from environmental damage, aiding in maintaining a youthful, radiant complexion. Elderberry's inclusion elevates the supplement's potential to promote skin health from within.
🫚 Ginger
Ginger, known for its digestive benefits and anti-inflammatory properties, plays a pivotal role in enhancing nutrient absorption. By supporting digestion, ginger ensures that the body optimally utilizes the collagen and other nutrients present in the supplement, contributing to overall skin health and vitality.
Being the most prominent protein in the body, collagen aids in functions throughout the body.
In the pursuit of radiant skin and overall well-being, collagen emerges as a cornerstone, offering a multifaceted pathway to vitality. Its diverse roles, ranging from maintaining skin elasticity to supporting joint health, gut function, and more, highlight its significance in nurturing our body's fundamental structures. Collagen isn't just a trend; it's a timeless ally in the journey towards holistic wellness. It represents a fusion of ancient wisdom and modern science, encapsulating nature's wisdom in promoting vitality from within.
Embracing collagen supplements, such as Dr. Emil's Multi Collagen Plus Powder, signifies a shift towards a holistic paradigm, a recognition that beauty and health are interconnected facets of our well-being. It's a reminder that true radiance isn't just skin-deep; it's a reflection of inner vitality, nourished by comprehensive care and mindful choices. By prioritizing collagen and adopting supportive lifestyle practices, individuals can unlock the potential for enduring beauty and vitality, transcending the constraints of age. It's not merely about chasing a fleeting ideal of perfection but about embracing a journey towards vibrant health and a luminous existence, a journey fueled by the magic of collagen and a holistic approach to wellness.
